Pickleball, a Sport from the U.S., Has Strong Growth Potential in Indonesia, Says Youth and Sports Minister

Indonesia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Dito Ariotedjo, believes that pickleball—a sport originating from the United States—has strong potential for rapid development in the country, as its characteristics align well with the preferences of the Indonesian people.

“Indonesians naturally enjoy racket sports, so there is a wide-open opportunity for pickleball to grow here,” said Minister Dito in an official statement from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, monitored in Jakarta on Friday.

He explained that pickleball combines elements of three different sports: badminton, tennis, and table tennis (ping pong). According to Dito, this combination makes the sport more accessible and easier for Indonesians to play.

“The court size is also similar to badminton courts. I believe this sport can see massive growth here,” he added.

Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to monitor the development of pickleball in upcoming international multisport events. Dito noted that if pickleball is included as an exhibition sport in the 2028 Olympics, Indonesia would have an opportunity to send athletes to compete.

To show his commitment, Minister Dito, alongside Deputy Minister Taufik Hidayat, took part in a demonstration match of pickleball held at the Ministry’s Badminton Court. The event served not only as a hands-on introduction to the sport but also as a symbol of institutional support.

During the occasion, Dito met with the Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Pickleball Federation and two student-athletes from Jakarta State University—Rafly Rizqullah and Yori Andini—who have been actively involved in promoting and playing the sport.

The minister emphasized that his office is taking the development of pickleball seriously. Although the sport was only introduced to Indonesia in 2019, it has already started gaining traction.

As public interest in pickleball rises, communities are forming, and promising athletes are emerging. Dito confirmed that the government is ready to offer full support to foster talent and achieve sporting success.

“With pickleball gaining popularity and more potential athletes coming forward, we will certainly step in and give our full support to help the sport thrive and bring home achievements,” he concluded.